Raleigh TikTok User Talks About Loss of App After It Helped Build His Business
The impending shutdown of TikTok on Sunday is set to disrupt the lives of roughly 170 million users in the United States, particularly the creators who have built their careers and communities on the platform.
Raleigh stylist Ceazer Stylz uses TikTok to promote himself as a natural hair stylist specializing in locks. “This app has allowed me to grow in so many ways and connect with so many different people,” he expressed, acknowledging the significant impact the platform has had on his professional life.
The connections that Ceazer has made through TikTok have translated into tangible success. “Out of my 400 and something clients over the last three and a half years, I would say 60 percent came from TikTok or were influenced by TikTok,” he revealed, demonstrating how the app has been instrumental in expanding his clientele.
One noteworthy connection occurred when Ceazer came across influencer Donna Elle’s Dance Creation from Chattanooga, Tenn. Inspired by her creativity, he thought to create a dance challenge of his own. “When I ran across her dance creation, I was like, what if I make a challenge over 40? I’m 44, so when I heard Brandy, I said, ‘Here it goes, I got to’,” he recalled.
Donna Elle, reflecting on her initial feelings about the dance challenge, stated, “I was like, nobody is going to pay attention to this dance. It’s too simple.” However, she soon recognized Ceazer’s passion when she realized it was him participating. “I have been watching this guy for years, and I am like, wait a minute, it’s him,” she said.
Although Ceazer and Donna live nearly 500 miles apart, TikTok has served as a bridge connecting them and countless others. “I found my people on TikTok,” Elle commented, emphasizing the community aspect of the app.
The recent decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to uphold the TikTok ban has sent shockwaves through the creator community, forcing many to scramble and consider their next moves. As influencers like Donna Elle come to terms with the app’s potential demise, she reflected on the joy it has brought to people. “To end this era, getting people to dance to music from the 90s is priceless,” she mentioned, acknowledging the irreplaceable experiences created on the platform.
Despite the melancholy surrounding the end of TikTok, Ceazer Stylz maintains a positive outlook. He shared a piece of wisdom passed down from his grandmother: “If you can’t change the situation, change your attitude.” This mindset is something he hopes will inspire others to adopt as they navigate this transition.
In search of alternatives, many social media users are exploring a new Chinese-based platform called RedNOTE, which bears a visual and functional resemblance to TikTok, as well as considering various other platforms.
